Alpine to make key F1 signing with hire from FIA

Alpine is set to announce the signing of Jason Somerville, who is set to join the team following his exit from the FIA, RacingNews365 understands.

Somervile has spent the last four years with F1's governing body working as its head of aerodynamics. Prior to that, he held the same title with F1 itself, where he spent almost five years.

However, May 14 marked Somerville's final day at the FIA, news which he confirmed on his LinkedIn profile.

“Last day with the FIA today,” he wrote. 

“Massive thanks to my FIA colleagues, our technical partners and representatives at FOM and the F1 teams who’ve made the last 4 years so fascinating, enjoyable and challenging!

“Next chapter starts tomorrow...”

RacingNews365 has learned that Somerville's next chapter is with Alpine, and he is set to join its technical management set-up in a prominent role.

The announcement from the team is due to be made in the near future, possibly as early as this week.

Somerville last worked for an F1 team in 2017, having spent almost six years as head of aerodynamics at Williams.

He took on the senior role at the Grove-based outfit following stints at Lotus and Toyota.

Somerville’s next career venture comes as Alpine enjoys a significant rise up the pecking order after a dismal 2025 campaign.

Alpine opted to switch focus to its 2026 car early last year and has already surpassed its 2025 points tally after just four rounds this season.